Gum Disease, Systemic Links, and Your Health

At the Santa Barbara, CA dental office of Dr. Mark T. Weiser, gum disease prevention is a priority and part of our preventative oral care regimen. Dr. Weiser’s care philosophy is based on the connection between the mouth and the body. In addition to helping patients prevent gum disease, we also offer periodontal treatments to help those who already have signs and symptoms of gum disease.

Gum disease is a big problem in the current day and age and it often goes undiagnosed and untreated. By neglecting signs of gum disease and by not having regular checkups with a dentist, you put yourself at risk of periodontal disease and this disease can have a far-reaching impact.

Dr. Mark T. Weiser and his team are committed to good oral health and good oral health can translate to improved overall health, too. Do you have the signs and symptoms of gum disease? Contact us for a consultation today.

"The health of your mouth is very important. We offer very sophisticated tools and alternative approaches to treatment of periodontal disease, especially non surgical methods, using lasers, ozone and ultrasonics."
—Dr. Mark Weiser

Periodontal Disease and Systemic Links

Gum disease can cause pain and sensitivity as well as bleeding gums and it can lead to tooth loss, which is reason enough itself to take care of your gums. But beyond discomfort and the risk of tooth loss, periodontal disease can also lead to a plethora of health problems.

Pancreatic Cancer

Pregnancy

Diabetes

A vicious cycle exists between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and gum disease...Read more

Osteoporosis

Bone density and gum disease are shown to be linked. If you have bone density issues, you could also have gum disease...Read more

Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease starts with gingivitis, progresses to periodontitis, through to advanced periodontitis. Early treatment offers the best outcome possible with less invasive gum disease treatment options.

Signs of Gum Disease

Don’t ignore signs of periodontal disease. Some of the common signs of gum disease include:

Bleeding of the gums

Swollen gums

Loosening teeth

A change in your bite

Sores on the gums

Gum receding

Foul taste / foul odor in mouth

Gum disease can progress significantly even before you see signs of it. That’s why regular checkups are critical to your health. The earlier your dentist sees the signs of periodontal disease, the better the opportunities are to arrest it and stop it from having a negative impact on your teeth and your systemic health.

Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Gum disease can happen to anyone at any stage, particularly where an individual has neglected his or her teeth and gums. In addition to oral hygiene, there are risk factors that can increase your risk of gum disease. They include:

Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes

Tobacco use

Heredity / Genetics

Some prescription medications are also linked to an increase in gum disease

As you age, gum disease risk also increases, making it important to take good care of your teeth and gums at all stages of your life.

Santa Barbara Gum Disease Treatment is Available

At our Santa Barbara dental office, you can receive treatment for gum disease. We offer several options including root planing and scaling as well as laser dentistry, which can help eradicate gum bacteria.

Whether you have signs of gum disease, have it in your family, or are simply looking to ensure that you continue to keep your gums healthy, we would be happy to meet with you for a consultation to discuss your gums and your oral health in general.